I was diagnosed at 21 years old after the birth of my first child. I started getting very cold in my hands and started with digital finger ulcers. It was painful, but far more painful when I was diagnosed with progressive diffuse sclerosis.

One thing I know is that I must be hopeful for my son, and find the strength even when I feel I don't have any. I will never give in to defeat I have too much to look foward to in life. The things you see on the internet are scary but I refuse to accept that my fate is to suffer and be defeated by this. Faith is key.

The Scleroderma Foundation is a qualified national nonprofit operating under 501(c)(3) status. The foundation’s federal tax identification number is 52-1375827. Our primary goal is to raise funds for our three-fold mission of support, education and research. The foundation has 20 active chapters and 160 support groups across the country.